"BackcountryJackson Hole Mountain Resort made the decision to temporarily close all backcountry access gates including those at the top of the Aerial Tram and those within the ski area boundary on Friday, December 19. As a result some of Jackson Hole's most famous terrain like Cody Peak, and Rock Springs Bowl will be inaccessible for skiers and riders. Jackson Hole is home to some of the best expert terrain in the country."
"Teton County Sheriff Matt Carr, who oversees Teton County Search and Rescue, said the closure is "100% precautionary." A combination of dangerous avalanche conditions and difficult backcountry navigation have sparked the decision. Carr added, "We're not closing the backcountry, but the access that's provided by the lift system is closed for good measure, for rescuer safety. Hopefully the conditions will change and we can reverse that.""
"The backcountry gate at the top of the tram sits at 10,450 feet and gives skiers and riders access to over 3,000 acres of backcountry terrain. In addition to high avalanche danger, rescue access due to a low snowpack is a major concern. Sheriff Carr emphasized that "skiers and snowboarders that leave the resort from upper mountain gates would also likely struggle to get back, and may have to remove their skis to walk back into the resort-a process that could take hours.""
All backcountry access gates at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, including the Aerial Tram top and in-boundary gates, were temporarily closed on December 19, blocking access to terrain such as Cody Peak and Rock Springs Bowl. The closure followed a historically mild start to winter and was coordinated with Search and Rescue and Bridger-Teton National Forest. Officials cited dangerous avalanche conditions, difficult backcountry navigation, and low snowpack that limit rescue access. The tram gate at 10,450 feet provides access to over 3,000 acres. Officials warned that leaving from upper gates could force skiers to remove skis and walk back, taking hours.
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